Corruption And Its Implications For Good Governance And Sustainable Development In Ankpa Local Government Area, Kogi State

Abstract

This study examined the effects of corruption on good governance and sustainable development in Ankpa Local Government Area (LGA) of Kogi State, Nigeria. Corruption at the local government level remains a critical obstacle to democratic governance, effective service delivery, and grassroots development, despite national anti-corruption initiatives. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design and drew its population from civil servants, traditional leaders, and residents of Ankpa LGA. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 200 respondents from an estimated population of 350. Data were collected through structured questionnaires while both primary and secondary data sources were utilized. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. The results revealed a statistically significant relationship between corruption and poor governance outcomes, particularly in terms of transparency, accountability, and public participation. The study further found that corruption adversely affects sustainable development indicators such as infrastructure provision, healthcare delivery, and educational development, with a high incidence of abandoned and poorly executed projects. The study concluded that corruption is a major impediment to good governance and sustainable development in Ankpa LGA and recommended strengthening accountability mechanisms, enhancing institutional oversight, and promoting community participation as measures for sustainable governance and development.